Yally, the landlord of the future and expert in sustainable rental properties in Belgian city centers, is completing its transformation project on Wallenstraat in Roeselare. Just 100 meters from the Grote Markt, Yally purchased the former Vancora building, which has been transformed into an energy-efficient residential project with additional rental apartments and commercial spaces. In this way, Yally is responding to the continued demand for high-quality rental properties in prime locations and contributing to a more attractive and sustainable city center. Moreover, Yally is well-known in the region. In addition to this project, Yally also owns and manages other rental apartments in Roeselare and Kortrijk, and remains actively seeking additional acquisitions.
Investing in existing real estate with social added value
The building on Wallenstraat was acquired by Yally in 2023. Instead of occupying new space, Yally consciously opted for the reuse and enhancement of existing real estate. By giving the building a second life, its life cycle is extended, its ecological footprint is reduced, and the streetscape is significantly improved. With the completion of the project, three additional rental apartments (+40%) and one additional commercial unit were created within the same space. In this way, Yally contributes to densification and more efficient use of space in the city center. Its location is a definite advantage: close to the Red Light District parking garage, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and public transport, and with an excellent Mobiscore of 9.2, residents can easily get around on foot or by public transport. For the commercial units, Yally deliberately focuses on features that add social value to the neighborhood, such as a supermarket, doctor's office, dentist, and/or sports-related facilities.
Fast and well-considered realization with respect for the neighborhood
Several construction projects have already taken place on Wallenstraat in recent years, which has understandably caused residents concern about further disruption. Yally therefore focused heavily on extremely efficient execution. The total project completion time was just four months. What was still an outdated building in October 2025 was transformed in record time into a contemporary and energy-efficient rental project, without sacrificing quality or living comfort. Designed by Luum Architects, the project consists of two complementary parts that now form a single architectural whole. On the left side of the building, the existing structure was retained, but the roof, windows, and facade were completely renovated and insulated to significantly improve energy performance, thus controlling costs for tenants and increasing comfort. Two apartments in this renovation section have already undergone a complete renovation according to Yally's quality standards; the remaining residential units will be gradually renovated in a subsequent phase. In addition, a communal bicycle shed was integrated, with bicycle parking spaces and electric charging stations for each unit. The right-hand side was completely demolished and then rebuilt by prefabricated construction specialist CIRCL as a high-quality new building with heat pumps, solar panels, and new south-facing terraces with abundant natural light. Thanks to the modular off-site construction method, the shell was erected within 10 days. This minimized disruption to neighbors. Furthermore, waiting times, construction chaos, and weather delays were kept to a minimum. By consistently applying the same style and materials across both volumes, the building today forms a timeless and warm whole with architectural added value.
“Finding the balance between sustainability and affordability for rental properties is essential. “By renovating existing real estate in an energy-efficient way and smartly densifying it, we create high-quality rental properties that are ready for the future,” says Anneleen Desmyter, CEO of Yally.
Pilot project for rapid renovation and urban collaboration
The project demonstrates how Yally can quickly and efficiently transform existing urban real estate thanks to strong collaboration between investors, designers, and the city. This is essential in a context where the renovation challenge is particularly significant: according to the construction federation Embuild, no less than 92% of all homes in Belgium will need to be renovated within the next 25 years to meet energy standards. By focusing on optimization, standardization, and economies of scale, the project on Wallenstraat serves as an example of how city centers can accelerate their sustainability efforts, with minimal impact on the surrounding area and clearly adding value to the streetscape and the rental market. The apartments and commercial spaces are now available for rent via www.yally.be. Press, local residents, and interested parties are welcome to view the property during the open house on Friday, February 27, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.